A Good Start For Curtis

By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter

New boy Curtis Good made a winning start to his Newcastle career in the Reserves' 4-1 friendly victory over Gateshead on Wednesday night, little over 24 hours after completing his move from Melbourne Heart to Tyneside.

And second-string boss Willie Donachie has been impressed by the 19-year-old defender, who signed a six-year contract on Tuesday following a successful trial with the Magpies.

Good was rarely tested against the Heed but dealt with a number of high balls and looked composed on the ball, but it was not just the youngster's performance on the pitch which pleased Donachie.

The former Scotland international has also been struck by the Aussie's confident and friendly personality, which he believes could be a big asset in helping to settle thousands of miles from home.

"Curtis seems to be a great character, a really reliable, strong person," Donachie told nufc.co.uk after watching Good's debut at the International Stadium.

"He's a left-footed centre-half and there's not many of those around, but he just seems a good person and to me that's what good teams and good clubs are all about: good people.